After graduating from Flinders with a degree in Forensic and Analytical Chemistry in 2017, India Shackleford’s career journey was marked by a passion for science, problem-solving, and a desire to give back to her community. Motivated by the heightened significance of healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, India is now in her second year of Medicine after transitioning through Flinders’ Indigenous Entry Stream (IES).
During her undergraduate studies, India took an elective that would plant a seed for her future in Medicine – despite being an area outside her strengths.
“I did an elective in Human Physiology, one of the MD topics, which I thought interesting. I considered medicine after doing this subject, but wasn’t sure medicine was for me as it wasn’t my best-performing topic.”
Post-graduation, India moved interstate to delve into chemistry research, enjoying the problem-solving aspects but wanting a more people-centric role. Returning to Adelaide, she applied for the IES where she appreciated Flinders’ student-centered approach, excellent faculty, and the appeal of a substantial MD cohort with a focus on rural and remote healthcare. These factors, coupled with the exemption from the Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT), made the pathway more accessible and appealing.
A particular highlight was the unique opportunity to experience a week of medical studies through the Pre-Medicine Program (PMP) in Darwin.
“The PMP is a good way to see whether studying medicine is for you. It’s a supportive environment in terms of fostering people to develop their skills in science and health through the program. ”
Due to complete her studies in 2026, she is still exploring various areas of medicine, expressing interest in the health of young people, adolescents, and child health. She envisions a career where she can make a difference as both a clinician and a researcher, potentially pursuing a PhD.
“While undertaking the IES I took on a role as research assistant in Aboriginal Health Equity at Wardliparingga, a great opportunity to give back to community and also learn more about the health field that I was interested in.
I have an interest in being both a clinician and a researcher. The clinician role is one on one and provides the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives individually, also being able to have a role in research you can make systemic change.”
Improve health outcomes in your community. Apply for a Doctor of Medicine at Flinders in South Australia or the Northern Territory via the Indigenous Entry Stream.
*The IES is an entry pathway for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants only. For alternative pathways to medicine please visit our dedicated webpage.